Are you missing out on your favorite Aussie TV while traveling abroad? Gain unrestricted access to your favorite Aussie TV shows while abroad with the help of a Virtual Private Network (VPN). We understand how frustrating it can be to miss out on your beloved Australian channels while traveling. That’s why we’ve thoroughly tested and researched the best VPNs tailored explicitly for Australian TV, so you can stay connected to the content you love.
Regarding online privacy, the need for protection is more significant than ever. Your web browsing activities are constantly under surveillance by various entities, including your employer, Internet Service Provider (ISP), and even the government. With a VPN, you can rest assured that your internet traffic is encrypted, making it indecipherable to prying eyes without the proper decryption key.
But that’s only some of what a VPN can do for you. One of the most significant advantages of using a VPN is the ability to spoof your location. Many streaming platforms, including Australian TV channels, are geographically restricted. However, by connecting to a VPN server in Australia, you can replace your real IP address with an Australian one, granting you access to your usual services from anywhere in the world.
So, whether you’re in the UK, the USA, or any other location, you no longer need to feel disconnected from your favorite Australian TV series and movies. Our carefully curated list of top VPNs with Australian IP addresses will ensure you take advantage of every moment of the action. Stay tuned as we reveal the most reliable VPN options to enhance your streaming experience while safeguarding your online privacy.
We’ll review each of our recommendations in greater detail later, but if you just want to see which VPNs are best for watching Australian TV abroad, Here is our list of the best VPNs for watching Australian TV abroad:
- NordVPN: Our top choice for watching Australian TV! NordVPN provides fast connection speeds, numerous advanced security features, and a no-logs policy. Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.
TIP In our testing we found that the cheapest NordVPN plan (Standard) works perfectly for Australian TV. - Surfshark: Best budget option for watching Aussie TV from anywhere. A versatile, security-first VPN that unblocks plenty of Australian streaming services abroad.
- IPVanish: A lightweight, high-speed VPN for Australian TV with strong security, excellent multi-platform support, and no connection limit.
- ExpressVPN: A high-speed VPN with excellent security and privacy features, as well as strong unblocking capability, including 7Plus and 9Now.
- CyberGhost: Powerful yet inexpensive, this service is fast, affordable, and able to unblock several streaming platforms abroad. It even offers pre-configured security features.
- PrivateVPN: This VPN offers higher speeds than most, keeps no logs, and can reliably unblock several popular geo-restricted platforms in Australia and abroad.
- PureVPN: Great all-rounder with servers in over 65 countries, including Australia. Robust privacy and security features. Apps for all platforms.Â
- ProtonVPN: High-quality VPN perfect for techy users. Fast and reliably accesses popular streaming platforms. No logging policy.
Many VPNs claim to work with Australian TV but most (especially free VPNs) are often blocked.
We regularly test the top 70 VPNs with all major streaming sites and this list only includes VPNs which reliably unblock Australian TV and offer a full money-back guarantee, allowing you to try them risk-free.
How to stream live Australian TV from abroad with a VPN
VPNs might seem complicated, but they’re actually effortless to use. Follow the steps below to unblock Australian streaming platforms from anywhere. For non-paid channels, this will allow you to stream Australian TV for free.
Here’s how to watch Australian TV online overseas:
- Begin by signing up for one of the VPNs mentioned below (we recommend NordVPN).
- Download and install the software, making sure to get the correct version for your connected device.
- Connect to any of your VPN’s Australian servers to get a local IP address.
- Try accessing a geo-blocked Australian site. Online content should load immediately, although you may have to clear your browser’s cookies and cache and refresh the page first.
- If issues persist, you will need to reach out to your VPN provider for further support.
WANT TO TRY THE TOP VPN RISK FREE?
NordVPN is offering a fully-featured risk-free 30-day trial if you sign up at this page. You can use the VPN rated #1 for streaming Australian TV for a month, with no restrictions at all—great if you want to watch your favorite show while on a vacation abroad.
There's no catch—just contact support within 30 days if you decide NordVPN isn't right for you and you'll get a full refund. Start your NordVPN trial here.
What Australian TV can I watch free overseas?
With a suitable VPN, you can stream Australian TV services free from overseas so long as it is a free-to-view channel. This means if you are traveling internationally, you can still access popular Australian TV channels free with a VPN, including:
- ABC iView
- SBS On Demand
- 7Plus
- 9Now
- Ten play (Channel 10)
Best VPNs for watching Australian TV abroad – Our hands-on review
We’ve compared the most important features of the top VPNs here. Prefer to read the in-depth reviews? Start with NordVPN – our #1 choice for watching Australian TV abroad.
No value | NordVPN | Surfshark | IPVanish | ExpressVPN | CyberGhost | PrivateVPN | PureVPN | Proton VPN |
Website | NordVPN.com | Surfshark.com | IPVanish.com | ExpressVPN.com | Cyberghost.com | PrivateVPN.com | PureVPN.com | protonvpn.com | Ranking for Australian TV: | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | Australian Servers | 190+ servers | 90+ servers | 50+ servers | 4 cities | 150+ servers | 20+ servers | 4 cities | 80+ servers | Avg Speed (Mbps) | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 74 Mbps | 400 Mbps | 100+ Mbps | Devices Supported | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Smart TVs, Routers | Windows, MacOS, Linux, iOS, Android | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Amazon Fire TV | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Smart TVs, Chromebook, Routers | Windows, Linux, MacOS, iOS, Android, Chromebook | Simultaneous Connections | 10 | Unlimited | Unlimited | 8 | 7 | 10 | 10 | Free: 1, VPN Plus: 10 |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Best deal (per month) | $2.99 74% off 2 year plans + 3 EXTRA months | $1.99 87% OFF + 4 months free | $2.19 SAVE up to 83% | $4.99 SAVE: 82% + 6 months free on 2 year plans | $2.03 SAVE 84% on the 2 year plan + 4 months free! | $2.00 Save 85% on a one year plan + 24-months free | $1.99 85% off the 5-yr standard plan | $2.99 SAVE 70% on a 2-year plan |
Choosing a VPN is often tricky due to the sheer number of competing providers. To simplify things, we decided to raise the bar and only recommend services meeting all of the criteria below. This ensures you’ll get a safe, fast, secure service, not just one capable of unblocking Australian streaming video platforms.
Our criteria for selecting VPNs for Aussie TV
Here are some of the things we look for in VPNs for Australian TV:
- Provides reliable, high-speed connections for 4k streaming
- Has a vast network with at least one server in Australia (ideally more)
- Offers effectively uncrackable encryption and a range of additional security features
- Does not log any personally identifiable information, with no exceptions
- Has apps for the most popular operating systems and devices
- Works with popular streaming services in Australia and abroad
- Is fairly priced and has a no-hassle money-back guaranteed
We cover our testing methodology in more detail further in this article.
Best VPNs for streaming Australian TV
Based on our research, take a look below to find the best VPNs for watching Australian TV online:
1. NordVPN
Nov 2024 UNBLOCKS AUSTRALIAN TVTested Nov 2024
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
- FireTV
Website: www.NordVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
NordVPN has a very large network, with over 6,000 servers spread across offer 111+ countries (and 190+ servers in Australia alone). Its top-tier speeds and exceptional unblocking ability make it a strong choice for anyone looking to watch Australian TV channels abroad. Better still, with up to 10 connections allowed, you can protect most, if not all of your devices simultaneously.
This service includes a wide range of security options. To begin with, there’s 256-bit encryption, a customizable kill switch, an ad blocker, a malware scanner, and protection against DNS, IPv6, WebRTC, and port-forwarding leaks. You can also choose to access Tor over VPN or use two layers of encryption instead of one. Further, NordVPN has a no-logs policy. Customer support is available 24/7 over live chat in case you need any assistance.
NordVPN has Windows, Linux, Mac, Android, and iOS apps. It can be manually installed on select wireless routers.
NordVPN speed test data
No value | NordVPN |
Website | NordVPN.com | Average Connection Speed - North America (USA) | 354 Mbps | Average Connection Speed - Europe (UK) | 262 Mbps | Average Connection Speed - Asia (Hong Kong) | 284 Mbps |
---|---|
Best deal (per month) | $2.99 74% off 2 year plans + 3 EXTRA months |
Pros:
- Lots of high-speed Australian servers
- Keeps no logs whatsoever
- Exceptional unblocking ability
- Allows for customized security setup
- 24/7 support
Cons:
- Doesn’t tell you which servers are best for a specific streaming platform
Our score:
BEST VPN FOR AUSTRALIAN TV:NordVPN is our first choice. Lets you stream Australian content effortlessly. It’s a security-conscious VPN offering fast connections and excellent unblocking potential. It even includes a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full NordVPN review.
2. Surfshark
UNBLOCKS AUSTRALIAN TVTested Nov 2024
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.Surfshark.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
Surfshark offers access to around 3,200+ servers in 100+ countries, including Australia. With decent connection speeds, unlimited bandwidth, and the ability to unblock major platforms like 9Now, it’s perfect for anyone looking to stay up-to-date with their favorite shows while on vacation. What’s more, Surfshark has no connection limit, meaning you won’t have to leave one of your devices unsecured just because you want to watch on the go.
This VPN uses 256-bit AES encryption, protection against DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leaks, and a kill switch to keep your online activities private at all times. It blocks ads and malware automatically, and if you’re visiting a country with strict online censorship, the NoBorders feature will let you access the web as you normally would. Surfshark doesn’t log any personally identifiable information but you can pay in Bitcoin for added privacy if you’d like. Support is available 24/7 over live chat.
Surfshark provides apps for Windows, Linux, MacOS, iOS, and Android. It can be manually installed on supported network routers.
Surfshark speed test data
No value | Surfshark |
Website | Surfshark.com | Average Connection Speed - North America (USA) | 521 Mbps | Average Connection Speed - Europe (UK) | 702 Mbps | Average Connection Speed - Asia (Hong Kong) | 561 Mbps |
---|---|
Best deal (per month) | $1.99 87% OFF + 4 months free |
Pros:
- Generally decent connection speeds
- Strong on security and privacy
- Strict zero-logs policy
- Connect as many devices as you like
- Unblocks a wide range of Australian streaming services
Cons:
- Several prominent tools in the app require an additional payment to work
Our score:
BEST BUDGET PROVIDER:Surfshark is a low-cost VPN with a major focus on security and privacy. Also provides user-friendly apps and speeds that are fast enough for lag-free content streaming. Best of all, all plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
3. IPVanish
UNBLOCKS AUSTRALIAN TVTested Nov 2024
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.IPVanish.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
IPVanish has over 2,200 servers in around 75+ countries worldwide, including Australia. It is one of the fastest providers on the market and boasts real streaming potential. While most of its rivals allow around five simultaneous connections, IPVanish has no limit, meaning it’s ideal for those looking to protect all their devices simultaneously.
This service keeps you safe at all times using a combination of 256-bit encryption, a kill switch (in desktop apps), and protection against DNS and IPv6 leaks. Users can also connect automatically when on an untrusted network or attempt to reconnect immediately should the connection drop unexpectedly. IPVanish doesn’t log any personally identifiable information and has proved this with an independent audit. Need help? You can contact support over live chat, 24/7.
IPVanish provides apps for Windows, Android, Amazon Fire TV and Firestick, MacOS, and iOS. It works on Linux-based platforms and select network routers but must be configured manually.
IPVanish speed test data
No value | IPVanish |
Website | IPVanish.com | Average Connection Speed - North America (USA) | 277 Mbps | Average Connection Speed - Europe (UK) | 237 Mbps | Average Connection Speed - Asia (Hong Kong) | 352 Mbps |
---|---|
Best deal (per month) | $2.19 SAVE up to 83% |
Pros:
- Impressive speeds
- Unblocks a good range of geo-blocked services
- Strong on privacy and security
- Allows you to connect all of your devices at once
Cons:
- Could offer more control over advanced features
Our score:
PROTECT EVERY DEVICE:IPVanish boasts high speeds, strong security, a no-logs policy, and a total lack of a connection limit. Its annual plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full IPVanish review.
4. ExpressVPN
UNBLOCKS AUSTRALIAN TVTested Nov 2024
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.ExpressVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
ExpressVPN offers access to over 3,000 servers in 105+ countries, including Australia. It’s fast enough to stream live HD video quality without any lag or noticeable buffering. Further, this service has strong unblocking ability and allows you to use platforms like 10Play, 7Plus, and 9Now from anywhere in the world.
This VPN keeps your traffic private with 256-bit encryption, perfect forward secrecy, and protection against IPv6 and DNS leaks. A kill switch (in desktop versions) also stops all data transfer if your internet connection drops suddenly. You can pay with Bitcoin if you’d like, but as ExpressVPN logs no personally identifiable information, your online activities can’t be traced back to you either way. Customer support can be reached 24/7 over live chat.
ExpressVPN apps are available for Linux, MacOS, Windows, Android, and iOS. Custom firmware is also designed to make using this service with a home router as easy as possible.
ExpressVPN speed test data
No value | ExpressVPN |
Website | ExpressVPN.com | Average Connection Speed - North America (USA) | 319 Mbps | Average Connection Speed - Europe (UK) | 303 Mbps | Average Connection Speed - Asia (Hong Kong) | 278 Mbps |
---|---|
Best deal (per month) | $4.99 SAVE: 82% + 6 months free on 2 year plans |
Pros:
- Optimized for high-speed connections
- Comprehensive security and privacy features
- Works with lots of popular streaming services
- Pay anonymously with Bitcoin
Cons:
- Slightly more expensive than other providers
Our score:
GREAT FOR STREAMING:ExpressVPN is fast and reliable.. It prioritizes your privacy and boasts excellent streaming abilities. What’s more, it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full ExpressVPN review.
5. CyberGhost
UNBLOCKS AUSTRALIAN TVTested Nov 2024
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.Cyberghost.com
Money-back guarantee: 45 DAYS
CyberGhost has Australian servers in Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, and over 11,500 in 100+ other countries. It’s extremely fast and tells you which servers are best for streaming 9Now, 10play, and Netflix, so there’s minimal hassle. What’s more, CyberGhost allows up to seven simultaneous connections, so you can stream safely whether you’re at home or on the go.
This VPN takes the hassle out of staying safe online, as its security features come pre-configured. These include 256-bit encryption, automatic ad blocking, and malware scanning, an always-on kill switch (present in every version), and protection against DNS and IPv6 leaks. CyberGhost doesn’t log any information that could identify you but allows you to pay with Bitcoin for added anonymity. Live chat is available 24/7.
CyberGhost offers Linux, Windows, Android, MacOS, and iOS apps. Manual installation is required for select internet routers.
CyberGhost speed test data
No value | CyberGhost |
Website | Cyberghost.com | Average Connection Speed - North America (USA) | 449 Mbps | Average Connection Speed - Europe (UK) | 269 Mbps | Average Connection Speed - Asia (Hong Kong) | 167 Mbps |
---|---|
Best deal (per month) | $2.03 SAVE 84% on the 2 year plan + 4 months free! |
Pros:
- Testing revealed impressive speeds for streaming
- Streaming-optimized servers
- Solid privacy features including kill-switch
- Offers browser extensions and apps
Cons:
- Doesn’t work reliably in China or UAE
Our score:
GOOD FOR BEGINNERS:CyberGhost is a fast, easy-to-use VPN that works with popular Australian streaming services abroad. It offers comprehensive security and privacy features, and comes with a 45-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full CyberGhost review.
6. PrivateVPN
UNBLOCKS AUSTRALIAN TVTested Nov 2024
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.PrivateVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
PrivateVPN might only have 200 or so servers covering 63+ countries (with four in Australia) but it offers higher speeds than many of its competitors. Further, this VPN works reliably with a huge range of streaming services including Amazon Prime Video, Netflix Australia, 7plus, and 9Now abroad. This service allows 10 connections at once so you can browse securely on whichever device you prefer.
256-bit encryption is enabled by default, but PrivateVPN also keeps you safe using a kill switch (on Windows) and DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leak protection. There’s even a stealth mode designed to help you beat strict VPN detection systems. This VPN has a true no-logs policy, so your privacy is in good hands, even if you choose not to pay with Bitcoin. Live chat is available most of the day, though we’d have preferred it to be staffed 24/7.
PrivateVPN apps are available for MacOS, Windows, iOS, and Android. The VPN must be manually configured before use on Linux systems or supported routers.
PrivateVPN speed test data
No value | PrivateVPN |
Website | PrivateVPN.com | Average Connection Speed - North America (USA) | 94 Mbps | Average Connection Speed - Europe (UK) | 57 Mbps | Average Connection Speed - Asia (Hong Kong) | 62 Mbps |
---|---|
Best deal (per month) | $2.00 Save 85% on a one year plan + 24-months free |
Pros:
- Zero-logs provider
- Very fast internet connection speeds
- An excellent choice for streaming
Cons:
- Small number of servers
- Doesn’t have 24/7 live chat
Our score:
NO-FUSS STREAMING:PrivateVPN is fast, log-free, security-focused, and able to securely access services like Amazon Prime Video and Netflix abroad. A 30-day money-back guarantee is included.
Read our full PrivateVPN review.
7. PureVPN
Unblocks Australian TVTested Nov 2024
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.PureVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 31 DAYS
PureVPN is both an effective and cheap way for travelers to keep up with Australian TV services. Boasting a large network of over 6,000 servers in more than 65 countries, PureVPN provides extensive coverage. This network includes servers in Australia, allowing access to local services such as Kayo Sports and Foxtel, as well as Australian internet banking, shopping, and Aussie-specific Google search results.
PureVPN delivers impressive speed, making it suitable for a range of online activities, including streaming, gaming, torrenting, and video calls. We tested the WireGuard protocol and got average download speeds of up to 400 Mbps, a remarkable performance considering how cheap it is.
For streaming enthusiasts, PureVPN is not limited to Australian content; it also supports major platforms like Netflix US, Hulu, HBO Max, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and various British and international TV services. Be aware that while torrenting is permitted, an additional charge is required for port forwarding.
In terms of security, PureVPN offers AES encryption, a kill switch, DNS leak protection, and adheres to a strict no-logging policy, ensuring your online activities are secure on public wifi networks in locations such as airports and cafes. The VPN’s encryption means you can also watch Aussie TV platforms at work without being monitored.
While customer support does have slower response times, this is a small caveat considering the cost. Plus, thanks to its 31-day money-back guarantee, you can test the VPN yourself to make sure it works with your specific streaming accounts.
PureVPN speed test data
Pros:
- Fast connections
- Works with Netflix, HBO Max, Disney+ and many others
- Servers in 65+ countries, including Australia
Cons:
- Support is a bit slow
- Port forwarding costs extra
Our score:
LOW COST:PureVPN is a low-cost VPN that is a great all-rounder. You can use it to watch Aussie TV on vacation or at work. It has servers in over 65 countries, including Australia. Robust privacy and security features. Fast WireGuard protocol and apps for all platforms. 31-day money-back guarantee.
Find out more in our PureVPN review.
8. ProtonVPN
unblocks Australian TVTested Nov 2024
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.protonvpn.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
ProtonVPN stands out as an impressive option if you want a highly reliable and advanced VPN with super fast speeds and servers in Australia. It is a touch more expensive than some of our top recommendations on the longer plans. However, you get what you pay for – a VPN with many advanced features that are particularly well-suited to techy users.
The VPN is based in Switzerland, and it upholds a stringent no-logs policy, ensuring the confidentiality of your online activities at all times. The VPN also has self-owned Secure Core servers in 60+ out of 91+ countries for those who require the highest possible privacy levels.
ProtonVPN is compatible with all major devices and comes equipped with AES encryption, various protocol options, obfuscation, split tunneling, multi-hop connections, Secure Core, and the integration of Tor over VPN. This makes it suitable for bypassing blocks in countries where online censorship and surveillance are prevalent.
It is also worth noting that if you only need a VPN to go on vacation, the monthly plan is cheaper than some of its competitors – so for a short-term plan this VPN is arguably the best. Our tests showed that ProtonVPN works to access tons of popular streaming platforms from around the globe including Aussie services, Netflix US, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, HBO Max, and many others.
Customer support is available via live chat on its website, and you can try the VPN risk-free with its 30-day money-back guarantee. It even has port forwarding included, making it a superb option for torrenting.
ProtonVPN speed test data
No value | Proton VPN |
Website | protonvpn.com | Average Connection Speed - North America (USA) | 390 Mbps | Average Connection Speed - Europe (UK) | 306 Mbps | Average Connection Speed - Asia (Hong Kong) | 295 Mbps |
---|---|
Best deal (per month) | $2.99 SAVE 70% on a 2-year plan |
Pros:
- Excellent speeds for streaming
- Works to access various Netflix regions
- Port forwarding is great for torrenting
Cons:
- A touch expensive
- Might not be the best for beginners
Our score:
HIGHLY ADVANCED:ProtonVPN is a high-quality VPN that is perfect for techy users. The VPN is fast and works to access popular streaming platforms. It has a no-logging policy, strong AES encryption, and a kill switch. 30-day money-back guarantee to test it yourself.
Find out more in our ProtonVPN review.
Our methodology: Choosing the best VPNs for Australian TV
There are thousands of VPNs out there, so narrowing our list down to just eight of the best providers is never easy. One of the ways we eliminate candidates is by being extremely strict about the type of VPNs we include – we’ll never recommend services we haven’t personally tested, and even then, they have to meet all of the criteria below:
- Has multiple Australian servers: Without servers in Australia, you can’t get an Aussie IP address, and can’t stream Australian TV. Ideally, we’d like to see lots of servers spread across several locations since this means users don’t have to rely on congested servers that are hundreds of miles away.
- Is fast enough for 4K streaming: Every VPN will lower your speeds but some providers are far better optimized than others. Streaming is fairly data-intensive, so high speeds are absolutely crucial. We regularly speed test leading VPNs to see which are the quickest and how they’ve improved over time.
- Can fly under the radar: Streaming services are getting very good at identifying VPN users. Forcing them to disconnect just to watch TV is a security risk since they may forget to turn the VPN back on afterward. For that reason, our top services must be able to avoid detection by popular geo-blocked sites.
- Doesn’t compromise on privacy: A VPN’s main purpose is to shield your activities from snoopers. That’s why all of our recommendations must follow a no-logs policy and use uncrackable encryption. We also require them to prevent DNS and IPv6 leaks, and to include a kill switch, though this is the bare minimum and additional security features are always very welcome.
- Beginner-friendly: We prioritize VPNs that try to make things as simple as possible. This might mean removing their connection limits, providing 24/7 support via live chat, or simply designing their apps with novices in mind.
- Good value for money: We only recommend VPNs that provide good value for money. This includes the monthly and annual subscription costs, money-back guarantee, and even the number of simultaneous connections supported. Remember that Comparitech has exclusive links for special discounts, so you can guarantee the lowest price.
- Apps and devices: We test each VPN for compatibility to ensure that you can enjoy your favorite Australian TV shows on every device, including iOS, Android, Mac, PC, Linux, and others.
Interested in finding out more? Check out our full VPN testing methodology post.
Can I stream Australian TV abroad with a free VPN?
While free VPNs can be an appealing prospect, we advise against using one. First, they often have fewer servers than paid VPNs, yet more online users. This means you’ll likely experience very slow connection speeds, which makes streaming difficult, if not impossible. It’s also worth noting that free VPNs are usually the first to be blocked by streaming platforms, so even if your service offers Australian servers (which not all do), you still might not be able to watch anything.
Free Virtual Private Network providers don’t bill the user directly, but they do have other ways to make money. These methods might include inserting ads into the pages you visit or allowing you to pay for increased speeds. However, some services use shadier tactics. For instance, they can store tracking cookies on your device and harvest valuable information, including which sites you visit and how often. Over time, this data can be compiled into a consumer profile and sold to advertisers, likely without your knowledge.
Finally, there’s no easy way to tell if your chosen VPN is safe or not. In the past, we’ve seen well-known services abuse their online users’ trust, like when Hola helped run a botnet with user bandwidth. Smaller services aren’t necessarily more trustworthy, though; a 2016 study of free VPNs found that almost 40% contained malware, over 80% were vulnerable to IPv6 leaks, and 18% never used any encryption at all.
The best way to protect yourself online is to use a well-established, trustworthy VPN with a customer-first privacy policy.
What Australian content can I watch with a VPN?
Once you connect to an Australian VPN server, you can use the internet and securely access your usual services while traveling abroad. This means that you’ll be able to stream content from platforms like TenPlay, 9Now, 7plus, Stan, and Foxtel Now. Here’s a list of shows you can stream from abroad with a suitable VPN:
- West Australian Football League (7plus)
- Real Housewives of Dubai (7plus)
- 90 Day Fiance (9Now)
- Married at First Sight Australia (9Now)
- Love Island Australia (9Now)
- House Hunters International (9Now)
- Heatwave (Netflix Australia)
- Irreverent (Netflix Australia)
- The Bachelor (TenPlay)
- The Challenge Australia (TenPlay)
- RuPaul’s Drag Race (Stan)
- Billions (Stan)
What else can I use a VPN for?
While VPNs let you stream Australian TV series and content abroad, they also have several other uses. For instance, you can use them to circumvent web filtering when connected to public Wi-Fi networks or when in a country with strict online censorship. This means you’ll be able to use foreign gambling and gaming sites, even if your country usually blocks them.
Since your traffic is encrypted, you can safely use Westpac, CBA, and ANZ online banking without having to worry about intercepting your data. Additionally, many services use automated systems to restrict access to your account if it’s accessed from another country. However, by connecting to a VPN server in your home country beforehand, you significantly reduce the chance of this happening.
See also: Best Australia VPNs
How to stream Australian TV FAQs
What is the most popular sport on Australian TV?
Cricket, rugby, and Aussie rules football are some of Australia’s most popular sports. As you might expect, these are given plenty of coverage on TV, particularly during major events like The Ashes or the Rugby World Cup.
Is Amazon Prime Video different in Australia?
Amazon Prime Video actually has different content in almost every country where it’s available, thanks to complicated international licensing agreements. However, in some cases, it’s possible to access another country’s Prime Video library as you travel by connecting to a VPN.
Is it legal to use a VPN to watch Australian TV?
If you’re legally allowed to stream Australian TV, then whether you’re connected to a VPN or not makes no difference. Australia currently has no laws in place banning VPN usage, and unless you’re using a VPN to commit crimes online, there’s no reason you should get into any trouble.
Which is the best VPN to watch Australian TV from the UK?
When it comes to choosing the best VPN for streaming Australian TV from the UK, there’s a lot to think about. Obviously, speed is a large factor, given how far away Australia is. Then, you’ll have to find a service capable of unblocking tricky streaming platforms like 9Now and Stan.Â
In our experience, NordVPN does this very consistently and offers a fantastic set of security features as well. Of course, other services have their own strengths as well: Surfshark lets you protect an unlimited number of devices, for instance, and ExpressVPN is the fastest provider on the market at the moment. Remember: most major providers offer a money-back guarantee, allowing you to try them and claim a refund if you’re not completely satisfied.
What cities in Australia does NordVPN have servers in?
NordVPN currently has around 200 servers in five Australian cities: Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth, and Sydney. This not only allows you to choose a server that’s as close to you as possible, but it also means that you can access geo-blocked services that may only be available in specific regions, time zones, or cities. Plus, since the servers are spread out instead of all in one place, if one cluster goes down for maintenance, you’ll still have others to choose from.
Why is Australian TV blocked abroad?
Australian streaming services and TV broadcasters like Ten and Seven have to block their services using geo-restrictions to comply with licensing agreements. The content that Australian broadcasters license for their channels and VoD platforms is limited to the Australian continent. As a result, those services must serve you an error message if you try to view them elsewhere.
Can I watch Kayo Sports online with a VPN?
Yes. You can watch Kayo Sports online with a VPN. That means that if you’re in UK but want to watch Kayo Sports, which is only available in Australia, you can use a VPN to make it look like you’re connecting from Australia. This will let you bypass any geographical restrictions on content and watch whatever you want, wherever you are.
Do Australian streaming services block VPNs?
Yes. As with other international streaming services from around the globe, Australian streaming services make every effort to block IPs associated with VPNs. This results in very few VPNs working seamlessly to provide access to Aussie service from abroad.
Thus, if you want to access an Australian streaming platform while on vacation, it is vital that you stick to a VPN that has fast servers down under that have been tested and will work to log in and stream while on vacation.
We have tested all of our recommendations with popular Australian TV channels and streaming services. What’s more, you can test the VPNs yourself alongside your favorite TV channels thanks to their risk-free money-back guarantees.
Will a VPN for Australian TV cause buffering?
Because they add an extra step to your internet traffic’s route around the world, VPNs can slightly reduce your speeds. Still, because you don’t need a blazing fast connection to watch HD video, you should only experience buffering if your base internet connection is particularly slow.
In these situations, we’d recommend lowering the video quality if possible. This is because 4K video needs a download speed of around 25 Mbps while you can view HD streams on 7plus, Stan, and Kayo with just 4 Mbps. Your VPN provider might even offer high-speed servers that are specifically optimized for streaming, so it never hurts to ask.
How can I optimize my VPN speed for watching Australian TV?
If you’re suffering from slow speeds from your VPN while watching Australian TV, the good news is that there are multiple ways you can optimize it.Â
In particular, we recommend you connect to a server that’s closer to your physical location. That way, data has less distance to travel and you should have faster speeds as a result. It’s also worth checking server load as well — some VPNs display this next to each server. Be sure to check you’re using the fastest VPN protocol possible as well. Most of the best VPNs for Australian TV have implemented WireGuard which is highly suitable for streaming.
Note also that some VPNs have a split tunneling feature through which you can have Netflix bypass the VPN connection for faster speeds. Don’t worry, your other apps will remain secured. Last but not least, a cable connection tends to be faster. If you’re on a desktop device, you could connect it to your router via an ethernet cable for faster speeds. Of course, it also helps to make sure you’re using one of the fastest VPNs, all of which are optimized for streaming.
Can I choose which Australian city my VPN connects to?
Many VPN providers offer multiple server locations within Australia like Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide, Melbourne, and Perth, allowing you to select the city you’d like to connect to. VPNs cater to users’ specific needs by providing a range of server options, such as accessing regional content or improving connection speeds. Be sure to check the VPN provider’s server list to confirm the availability of servers in your desired Australian city.
Can I watch Australian TV on my smart TV and other devices with a VPN?
Absolutely. It’s easy to watch Australian TV on smart TVs and other devices using a VPN. All of the VPNs featured in this article work with smart TVs thanks to features like Smart DNS and router compatibility.Â
If you have a device that doesn’t support VPNs (old smart TVs and some gaming consoles), this comes in handy. You’ll need to make sure you choose a VPN with Smart DNS or configure it on your router.
The providers in this list also work with a wide range of devices, including MacOS, Windows, iOS, Android, and Linux.
Hi Ian,
Thanks a lot for this amazing blog
I have a clarification. Does NordVPN works in Malaysia for Australian Channels?
Hi Bridget, as long as you use an Australian server, you should be able to securely access your usual services, no matter where you are (including Malaysia). Thanks, Ian
hi there… i had been using Astrill VPN, then this got blocked by KAYO, re ‘you are using VPN …’, 4 weeks ago signed up with ExpressVPN, all ok with Kayo, and NOW this week ‘you are using VPN …’ been blocked by Kayo … has kayo changed something or anyone else have issues?
Anyone experiencing my issues ???
Shane in Japan
Hi Shane, this is actually quite common – streaming services are consistently improving their VPN-detection methods, which can lead to specific services being blocked. However, it usually doesn’t take long for the VPNs to find a workaround. If you’re still having issues, I’d recommend trying a few different servers or asking ExpressVPN support for help directly. Thanks, Ian